German professional soccer player Sebastian Hertner has died following a tragic fall from a ski lift in Montenegro. The 34-year-old athlete was killed, and his 30-year-old wife sustained serious injuries after two double chairlifts collided at a mountain resort.
Details of the Tragic Accident
The incident occurred on Sunday, December 21, 2025, at the Savin Kuk ski resort near Žabljak in the Durmitor Mountains. According to reports, the collision between two lifts caused Hertner to fall approximately 230 feet to his death. His wife suffered a broken leg and was rescued from the lift before being transported to a hospital.
Montenegrin authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the collision and subsequently ordered the lift to be shut down. This shutdown left at least three other tourists stranded on the lift for several hours before they could be safely rescued.
A Promising Soccer Career Cut Short
Sebastian Hertner was a respected figure in German soccer. His career included playing for Germany's under-19 national team and stints with several professional clubs. He had played in the country's second division for teams including 1860 Munich, Erzgebirge Aue, and Darmstadt. At the time of his death, he was the captain of ESTV Hamburg.
His current club announced the devastating news on Instagram, stating, "It is with great sadness that we announce today that our captain Sebastian Hertner has died in a tragic accident while on holiday. We are stunned and incredibly sad."
Club and Community in Mourning
In a further tribute on its website, the board of ETSV Hamburg expressed profound grief. "With him, we lose not only a dedicated player, but also a valued person who enriched our club through his conduct, commitment, and camaraderie," the statement read. The club extended its deepest condolences to Hertner's family and loved ones.
The cause of the chairlift collision remains under investigation by local authorities in Montenegro. The accident has sent shockwaves through the international soccer community and raised questions about safety protocols at the winter sports resort.
